Brake Disc Conversion A La Carte

[Shane Tuttle]

I see a lot of different disc brake conversion kits out there. Some problems I see with them:

1. Some parts are not needed.
2. Some parts are not what I want.
3. Some parts are not the quality I expect.

I have a '74 Std Beetle. I want to convert to disc brakes all the way around. Instead of the kits, I'm looking to buy a la cart. Can anyone take a look at what I currently have, what I REALLY need, and changes I should make to my list?

On the Front:

TRW calipers/pads
Ghia Spindles (this should negate the need to buy the caliper brackets?)
Rotors w/associated bearings/seals
Stainless hoses

On the Rear:

Looking to order the kit from Car Craft Store and be done with it. It appears to have the e-brake cables, etc. I'll install stainless braided lines here, too. Is there an ongoing problem with the quality of the caliper brackets?

I was told if I was only going to only convert to discs in the front, I could use the stock master cylinder. However, if I go discs all the way around, I may not. I'm concerned if I can't because I wanted to spend money on a better quality master cylinder and it appears only inferior ones are available to handle the 4 discs. Can anyone provide me the proper setup with quality in mind?

[Tim Donahoe]

I haven’t seen a good, German master cylinder for four-wheel discs. I have disc brakes only on the front, and I’m perfectly happy with that. A German mc is perfectly adequate for the front disc/rear drum arrangement.

Tim
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Let's do the Time Warp again!

Richard O'Brien

[Shane Tuttle]

Thanks, Tim.

[1968BUGMAN]

I'm using the CB performance master for four wheel discs, it is really good and I am happy with it. I am using a cb performance disc kit front and rear. I am really happy with it so far.
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1968 Beetle Project | https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=...ae8942450a
Installing a Stereo Into a Classic VW | https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=9502179#9502179

[H2OSB]

[bnam]

I suggest that you install the fronts first. See how you like it. Then decide if you still want to do the rear. And to do this you already have all the parts.
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1971 1302LS Convertible (RHD) owned since '74
Click to view image
1965 Karmann Ghia Coupe - under restoration
1966 Fiat 1500 Cabrio (with 1600 Twin cam)
1952 Citroen TA 11BL

[Shane Tuttle]

bnam,

Why the cautionary tale? Is it too much brake for such a light vehicle? I live in the Rocky Mountains and I wanted plenty of braking power.

[Glenn]

Don't forget backing plates.

FYI... no need for read disc. Front disc and rear drums are more than enough.
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Glenn
74 Beetle Specs | 74 Beetle Restoration | 2180cc Engine
"You may not get what you pay for, but you always pay for what you get"

Member #1009

#BlueSquare

[BenJAMin]

I've had 4 wheel discs on my '74 Super for 15 years with a new at the time ATE stock master cylinder. From what I can see there is nothing wrong with using a stock master cylinder and it stops great and no adjustment. There is not reason from a driving perspective not to go 4 wheel discs.